Assam Legislative Assembly in Kokrajhar, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma provided much-needed clarity on a topic that has been a subject of widespread confusion for some time. Sarma addressed the long-standing misconception about the funding of areas governed by the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. He emphasized that no central funds are allocated specifically for the Sixth Schedule areas in Assam, contrary to what many had believed.
The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution pertains to the administration of tribal areas in the northeastern states of India. It aims to preserve the culture, heritage, and identity of tribal communities, granting them autonomy in the administration of their areas. This provision provides for the creation of autonomous district councils (ADCs) in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. These councils are responsible for the welfare of the tribal communities in their regions, including managing resources, administering laws, and making decisions related to their socio-economic development.
Sarma, in his address, clarified that the misconception regarding central funding had gained traction in the public discourse due to a lack of proper understanding of the financial framework in place. He explained that the funds allocated for the development of the Sixth Schedule areas come from the state government, not directly from the Centre. The central government, he added, provides funding to the state government, which then decides how to allocate these funds across various districts, including those under the Sixth Schedule.
The Chief Minister elaborated on the mechanisms through which funds are channeled into the development of the tribal areas. He emphasized that the state government had been taking steps to ensure the proper allocation of resources to the Sixth Schedule areas, but he also pointed out that the financial distribution is determined by state-level policies and priorities. Sarma’s clarification aimed to dispel the misconception that the central government directly funds the development of these areas.
This issue gained prominence recently as several tribal leaders and organizations raised concerns about the perceived lack of central funding for the Sixth Schedule areas. Some believed that the absence of such funding had hindered the progress and development of the tribal communities, especially in terms of infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The demand for a more significant allocation of central funds for these areas had been gaining momentum, with many calling for an increase in the central government’s role in the economic upliftment of the tribal regions.
In response to these concerns, Sarma highlighted that the Assam government had been actively working to address the needs of the Sixth Schedule areas, irrespective of the funding sources. He pointed out the ongoing development projects in the region, including improvements in roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities. The state government, he stressed, was fully committed to ensuring the welfare of the tribal communities and had been working on multiple fronts to improve their living conditions.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the challenges faced by the tribal regions, including the limited access to resources and infrastructure. However, he reassured the people of Assam that the state government was aware of these challenges and was focused on finding sustainable solutions. Sarma emphasized that the development of the Sixth Schedule areas required a concerted effort from both the state and central governments, with a focus on empowering the local communities to take charge of their own development.
Sarma’s comments were aimed at fostering a better understanding of the financial mechanisms at play and ensuring that there was no misinformation regarding the role of the central government in funding the Sixth Schedule areas. He made it clear that while the Centre plays an essential role in supporting the state’s development, the responsibility for the funding and development of the Sixth Schedule areas ultimately rests with the state government.
The clarification has been welcomed by many in Assam, particularly those involved in the administration of the tribal areas. By addressing this misconception, Sarma has provided much-needed transparency on the issue, paving the way for more focused discussions on how to improve the socio-economic conditions in the tribal regions. Moving forward, the state government’s commitment to supporting the Sixth Schedule areas is expected to remain a priority, with an emphasis on sustainable development and empowerment of the tribal communities.
